Pilot escapes light aircraft crash near Portsmouth
Emergency services have been working at the scene in Lee-on-the-Solent
Last updated 9 hours ago
A light aircraft crash-landed on the beach at Lee-on-the-Solent, prompting a large-scale emergency response.
According to Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service, crews from Hightown, Fareham, and Cosham were alerted to the incident just before 4.30pm yesterday afternoon (Saturday 28th February 2026).
"The pilot had exited the plane before our arrival," Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service said.
"Firefighters worked to secure the aircraft and winch it from the sea," they added.
The pilot was assessed by the ambulance service at the scene, which was later handed over to Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary to maintain security of the aircraft until it could be recovered.
"Our crews returned to their stations shortly after 7 pm this evening," Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service stated.
Hamble Lifeboat was also involved, with HM Coastguard tasking them to assist following reports of the aircraft in the water off Lee-on-the-Solent.
A spokesperson from Hamble Lifeboat said, “It was a very positive outcome in what could easily have been a far more serious situation.
"We send our very best wishes to the pilot following what must have been an extremely frightening experience."
Additionally, they praised the cooperation of all emergency services involved: "As always, it is heartening to see the seamless cooperation between all responding agencies, working together to bring incidents like this to a safe conclusion."